Israeli Auto Tech Firms Enter Drone Detection Market with Advanced Sensors
Israeli automotive technology companies are expanding into the drone detection sector, driven by the demand for affordable, high-resolution sensors capable of real-time detection and interception of drones. These sensors, originally developed for mass-produced vehicles and priced at a few hundred dollars per unit, offer rapid identification of moving vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists to enable emergency braking. Military-grade sensors, however, cannot meet these cost and performance requirements.
Innoviz, known for its lidar technology used by BMW and Volkswagen, is partnering with Cogniteam to supply lidar sensors for a new drone interception system. This collaboration aims to provide precise drone detection, tracking, and classification while minimizing false alarms and integrating quickly with existing defense systems. Both companies already cooperate on perimeter defense, critical infrastructure security, and border surveillance.
Innoviz CEO Omer Keilaf stated, "We are the eyes of the defense system. Our lidar technology delivers accurate 3D positioning of threats, enabling existing systems to operate with much higher certainty. This proven automotive technology addresses one of the most urgent security challenges today."
Separately, Arava announced that its radar technology was selected by a major global defense systems integrator for several civilian and military projects. Under a new framework agreement, Arava will supply high-resolution radar systems for three integrator-led projects, with expectations to expand cooperation further. This move marks Arava's transition from primarily chip supplier to full radar system provider for demanding environments beyond automotive, including security and infrastructure.
Arava CEO Ram Makhnes said, "The framework agreement with a leading global defense integrator is a significant step in expanding Arava into high-value sectors beyond automotive. It demonstrates the strength and critical reliability of our radar technology and highlights the commercial potential alongside our chip solutions."
Both Innoviz and Arava are entering the defense market amid challenges in breaking into the global automotive sector, reflected in their stock performances. Innoviz trades on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange with a market cap of 140 million shekels, down 34.5% year-to-date, while Arava trades in New York with a market cap of 107 million dollars, down 28% this year.
